‘Cities: Our Climate Change Antiheroes’ challenges us to reimagine cities as powerful climate solutions rather than just sources of emissions. While national governments debate, cities are becoming command centers for climate action - a role so crucial that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is preparing its first-ever special report focused on cities. Through examples from Bendigo to Singapore, Cathy Oke shows how 13,000 local governments worldwide are already leading bold climate initiatives, often outpacing national action. The future of our climate will be decided in our cities, and every citizen has a role in this transformation. Dr Cathy Oke OAM is a leading voice in urban sustainability and city leadership, combining 25 years of practical and academic expertise. She serves as Associate Professor in Informed Cities in the Faculty of Architecture Building and Planning and Director of the Melbourne Centre for Cities at the University of Melbourne, while advising the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy on research and innovation. Since 2021, she has co-hosted the ClimateTalks podcast covering the United Nations Climate Conferences. Her twelve years as a Melbourne City Councillor (2008-2020) and contributions to local government and the environment were recognized with an Order of Australia Medal in 2023. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

This talk explores why innovation might be slowing down. We'll discuss how constant distractions and a lack of focused attention can hinder our ability to generate new and exciting concepts. We'll also look at practical ways to sharpen our focus and reignite our curiosity. Kenneth Lin is a sophomore at Whippany Park High School. As an innovator, entrepreneur, and author, he is always working on his next startup and invention. In the past, he has developed a pharmaceutical product, published six research papers, and authored three books regarding innovation, creativity, and technology. In his talk, Kenneth will be discussing the barriers to innovation and strategies for developing, branching out, and turning one's weaknesses into strengths. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Adya Jain delves into how religion and spirituality are seen to be interconnected, and how they can work together, or on their own. Adya Jain is a Grade 11 student at UWCSEA, Dover. She is deeply interested in the intersection of for-profit business and socio-economic development, art, volunteering, debating, and writing. Last year, she stumbled upon a question in the John Locke Essay Competition about the meaning of spirituality for someone who—like Adya—saw herself as 'spiritual, but not religious.' After introducing the personal experiences motivating her exploration of religion and spirituality, she will interrogate the so-called differences between spirituality and religion, before concluding with what they have to come mean to her. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In this powerful TEDx talk, Mr. Rajkiran Kanagala uses the metaphor of Batman to explore the masks we wear in life—both personally and professionally. Drawing from his own life experiences, he shares transformative lessons on resilience, character, and perseverance. From struggling academically to becoming a gold medalist in engineering, from leading through corporate crises to surviving a life-threatening illness, his journey is a testament to determination and adaptability. Through real-life challenges and inspiring insights, he encourages us to redefine normal, challenge our convictions, and embrace new realities with courage. Rajkiran Kanagala, President and Chief Business Officer at Transport Corporation of India (TCI) Group, brings over 25 years of expertise in supply chain, logistics, and transportation. An alumnus of Harvard Business School, Rajkiran has driven strategic growth initiatives in areas such as technology, innovation, brand development, and ESG, particularly focusing on sustainable logistics solutions. A leader in the field, he chairs the Logistics and Supply Chain Tech Committee at IAMAI, actively contributing to industry advancements through digital technology. Rajkiran also heads TCI's chemical and SAARC verticals at a P&L level and leads the "TCI Safe Safar" national initiative on road safety and health. His distinguished career has positioned him as a sought-after speaker and advisor in India's logistics sector. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

On a personal level, since becoming a mother, five years ago, Ana-Maria Pălăduș has been increasingly engaged in “climate parenting”, a relatively new concept in Romania. Through this approach, she seeks to raise awareness about how climate change will shape the way we raise our children and prepare them for the future. Ana-Maria Pălăduș is an economist with a Master’s in International Economic Relations from Sciences Po, Paris. She co-founded REPER21 in 2006 to promote sustainable development in Romania, focusing on projects like climate education and green procurement. Since 2023, she has managed the European Climate Pact in Romania. Ana-Maria also co-founded GAL Turnu21, an urban Local Action Group, and advocates for "climate parenting," raising awareness about climate change's impact on child-rearing. She has trained over 1,000 individuals on sustainability topics nationwide. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

The future isn’t a single path—it’s a web of possibilities, shaped by rapid advancements in AI, climate change, and shifting global dynamics. Preparing for the unknown requires more than just predictions; it demands adaptability, resilience, and a mindset of continuous growth. That’s where PLAN comes in—a flexible framework focused on Purpose, Lifelong Learning, Agility, and Nurturing Relationships. Purpose gives us direction and resilience in uncertain times, while continuous learning keeps us relevant in a fast-changing world. Agility helps us navigate setbacks, and strong relationships provide the support needed to thrive. Small habits—like reflecting on our values, dedicating time to learning, embracing discomfort, and deepening personal connections—compound over time, shaping not just our future, but the futures of those around us. The world ahead will challenge us in ways we can’t yet imagine, but with intention and action, we can shape the future instead of merely reacting to it. Ciprian Stănescu is a Romanian social entrepreneur and President of Social Innovation Solutions (SIS), an organization focused on empowering individuals and organizations to navigate future transformations and develop sustainable solutions. With 12 years of experience in global organizations like Ashoka and the Aspen Institute, Ciprian is also a Global Shaper Alumni of the World Economic Forum and a Board Member of Rethink Romania.He teaches foresight and sustainability at The Entrepreneurship Academy in Bucharest and has completed executive programs in sustainable finance and circular economy at Harvard Business School and Cambridge Judge Business School. Ciprian holds an MA in Political Science from Central European University and frequently speaks on future trends, sustainability, and social innovation. Since 2023, he has hosted the “Pro Verde” sustainability talk show on Stirile Pro TV. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx